Runnymede Theatre Re-Opens as a Pharmacy
/The latest incarnation of the former Runnymede Theatre is yet another branch of a ubiquitous Canadian pharmacy chain, Shoppers Drug Mart, as reported by the Toronto Star on April 20. The grand opening took place today and so far, the response has been positive. It appears that the company preserved many of the historic features, including the stage, the ticket booth at the front entrance, and my favourite—the clamshell wall sconces that light up the main auditorium.
BOOKS ON THE RUNNY
Several books contain chapters on the history of the Runnymede Theatre. To see which library has each title, click on the link:
Lindsey, John C. Palaces of the Night: Canada’s Grand Theatre. Toronto: Lynx Images, 1999.
Lindsey, John C. Turn Out the Stars Before Leaving. Erin: Boston Mill Press, 1983.
Serbet, John. The “Nabes”: Toronto’s Wonderful Neighbourhood Movie Houses. Oakville: Mosaic Press, 2001.
Taylor, Doug. Toronto Theatres and the Golden Age of the Silver Screen. Charleston: The History Press, 2014.
On the Web
Visit Toronto’s Old Runnymede Theatre on Bloor Street by Doug Taylor for an excellent narrative and archival photographs on the history of the landmark. Silent Toronto also has a post about the former theatre.
